A DRIVER who caused the death of a biker from Oakridge has been spared a jail term.

Ben Challinor, 34, of Battens Way, Havant, was found guilty of causing death by careless driving and has now been sentenced to 24 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months.

The victim, Mark Copley, 51, of Cherry Tree Walk, Oakridge, had been driving a black Triumph motorcycle on the A27 in Portsmouth at around midday on April 30 when the collision occurred.

Challinor was found guilty of causing death by careless driving on September 26, following a trial at Portsmouth Crown Court.

The prosecution said Challinor had 'cut up' the motorcyclist, causing him to come into contact with the central reservation. Mr Copley died ten days later in hospital.

Challinor was also disqualified from driving for 18 months with a compulsory extended retest.

He must also pay £1,500 costs and carry out 250 hours of unpaid community work.

In a statement following Mr Copley’s death, his family said: “He was a loving husband and a great dad, who will be sadly missed by all those who knew him.”

After the sentence PC Katherine Carr from the Serious Collisions Unit said: "This is a tragic case which highlights the important of drivers to be on the alert at all times and to be aware of what is around them - particularly vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists. 

"This tragedy could have been avoided had the defendant taken the time and care to look properly."